Sweet and Sour Pork

Best Health

Sweet and sour sauce doesn't have to be a thick bright orange. This modern, light version of sweet and sour pork allows the succulence of the meat and the fresh flavours and different textures of a variety of vegetables and noodles to shine through.

Place the pork strips in a bowl, sprinkle over the soy sauce and pepper and stir to coat the meat. Sprinkle over the cornstarch and stir again. Cover and set aside.

To make the sweet and sour sauce, mix together the cornstarch, sugar, vinegar, rice wine or sherry, ketchup, soy sauce and reserved pineapple juice in a small bowl. Set aside.

Cook the egg noodles in a saucepan of boiling water for 3 minutes, or cook or soak them according to the package instructions. Drain well and set aside.

Heat a wok or heavy-based frying pan until really hot, then add 1 tablespoon of the sunflower oil and swirl to coat the wok. Add the pork and leave for 1 minute to brown, then stir-fry over high heat for 3–4 minutes. Remove the pork with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Heat the remaining oil in the wok, then add the corn and stir-fry for 1 minute. Add the carrot, garlic and ginger and stir-fry for another minute. Sprinkle over 6 tablespoons water and let the vegetables steam for 2–3 minutes.

Pour in the sweet and sour sauce mixture, stir well and bring to a boil. Put the pork back in the wok and add the noodles, pineapple and bean sprouts. Heat sweet and sour pork through, stirring and tossing. Add the green onions and sesame oil and serve.